Player Assessments: England Triumph Sealed by Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match
In a dominant performance, the English national team wrapped up one more victory against their opponents, with several squad members producing standout performances throughout the game.
Starting Lineup
Dean Henderson Not a save required during the opening 45 but then tested from an opponent's curling effort. One well-timed sliding challenge on an Albanian attacker demonstrated excellent game intelligence. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined against the opposition's main danger through Hoxha. Played in a central role initially then shifted out wide once a teammate entered the fray. 7/10
John Stones Advanced up the pitch when in possession, a familiar role in the past. Sometimes seemed hesitant in possession with the approach was shelved by the interval. 6/10
The tall defender A nuisance at set pieces, typically, but may be another option for his teammate at the back as opposed to paired with him. A careless pass later in the match almost led to a goal from Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly Another assured display from the youngster following his initial appearance versus Serbia. A teammate was unable to take full advantage of a clever flick behind the opposing backline. The left-back spot is firmly his already. Seven
The newcomer His maiden beginning for his country. A bit loose in possession however his whipped corners caused problems. An effective pace-controller for the coach to have against teams who drop deep. Booked after a reckless foul. 6/10
The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and set-plays caused problems. Had freedom to move down the left flank but was in an offside position as the pass came in front of goal. Awarded a merited break around the 60-minute point. 6
Jude Bellingham Played in a high role on the right and put in defensive duties. Displayed moments of class but mishit a shot wide. Replaced towards the end for Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. Seven
The winger Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity before halftime, his effort excellently kept out by the opposing goalkeeper. With a teammate staying deep, it fell to him to stretch the play down the right side although his balls from wide areas were inconsistent. Substituted with 15 to go. 6/10
Harry Kane The difference-maker with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals for his country. His first a trademark poacher’s finish and the second a superb headed goal following a clever run away from the opposition. Aged 32, he continues to improve and England are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to make an impact out wide. Had a presentable chance following a pass by Bellingham however the keeper made the save. His replacement made much more of effect when substituted. 5
Replacements
- Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting seamlessly with the striker in a preferred position, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger 63) Missed opportunities yet his delivery provided the first goal, 6
- Rashford (for the attacker 75) Energetic after coming on and set up the second goal with superb cross into the area, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (replacing Bellingham 84) Not enough time to affect things, 6